Things To Do In Finger Lakes NY | Weekend In Wine Lover’s Paradise

Whether you’re looking for the perfect destination to celebrate a significant milestone in style or planning a romantic couple’s getaway, the Finger Lakes region of New York is an enchanting destination.

There are many things to do in Finger Lakes, NY, from breathtaking natural views and outdoor adventures to world-class wineries and charming cafes. This is the ideal location for those looking to escape, unwind, and recharge.

Imagine walking through the rolling vineyards, surrounded by crystal-clear lakes, with a glass of wine in your hand and enjoying the warm hospitality of the local community. It almost sounds too good to be true—we would believe it was if we hadn’t experienced this New York state hidden gem ourselves.

Start planning your next unforgettable getaway with this guide, which includes recommended accommodations, our favourite Finger Lakes wineries, incredible restaurants and cafes, must-see attractions, and more. 

Where Are the Finger Lakes?

Located in New York state, just below Lake Ontario, the Finger Lakes is a popular vacation destination that features eleven long, narrow lakes (the area’s namesake). The lakes range in length from 4.8 km to 61 km, and the deepest lake is Seneca Lake, with a maximum depth of 188 m.

The eleven lakes (from west to east) include:

• Conesus Lake
• Hemlock Lake
• Canadice Lake
• Honeoye Lake
• Canandaigua Lake
• Keuka Lake
• Seneca Lake
• Cayuga Lake
• Owasco Lake
• Skaneateles Lake
• Ostico Lake

With so many beautiful lakes clustered in one area, the Finger Lakes region offers unique opportunities for outdoor adventures. Many nature lovers travel to the area to enjoy paddling (canoeing, kayaking), biking, camping, or hiking.

It’s also an ideal location for growing grape vines for winemaking, attracting many unique and world-class vineyards.

How to Get to the Finger Lakes Region

If you are looking for a beautiful road trip opportunity, this is it! The drive from Toronto to the Finger Lakes will take approximately 4-5 hours, depending on border delays, traffic, and what area of the region you are headed to. After crossing the border in Niagara Falls, you can take either I-90 E or I-490 E. Both routes offer stunning views, making it an enjoyable trip.

For those who prefer air travel, there are 3 major airports surrounding the area. However, they will all require you to take a cab or use a rideshare program (like Uber or Lyft) to get from the airport to your desired spot in the Finger Lakes. Your airport options include Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC, 45 min drive away), Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR, 1 hr and 15 min drive away), and Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF, 1 hr and 30 min drive away). If you have the time, we recommend extending your trip to explore the area around the airport after you fly in (or before you leave. Both Rochester and Buffalo, New York, are great destinations!

Accommodations in the Finger Lakes

There are many comfortable and welcoming inns, motels, and hotels in Finger Lakes, NY, to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a more mainstream hotel experience or a rustic cabin-like location for an outdoor-focused adventure, you can find the ideal accommodation for your getaway. Here are a few of our recommendations: 

The Park Inn

37 Shethar St, Hammondsport, NY

A warm and welcoming blend of historic architecture and modern touches, the Park Inn made us feel at home from the moment we arrived. Five suites are located on the second floor above The Restaurant at The Park Inn. Each room offers a king- or queen-sized bed, and most rooms also include a private seating area or living space. This is where we stayed during our recent trip to the area, and we would definitely return!

If you’re travelling with a larger group, they also have a separate farmhouse rental called Glenn Scott Manor, located down the road from the Point of the Bluff Vineyards. Here, you’ll find accommodations for up to 9 guests, plus a kitchen, wrap-around deck, and beautiful property to enjoy.

For families, the inn restricts guests to 13 and over to protect its historic nature. If you have younger children, you will need to consider other options (so keep reading).  

The Lake House on Canandaigua

770 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY

Travellers searching for a modern, luxury experience when considering the best hotels in Finger Lakes, NY, should check out The Lake House on Canandaigua. This resort location is the ideal spot for a lake retreat. The property is right on the water, providing a stunning view and access to water-related activities like kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, pedal boats, and a floating trampoline.

Willowbrook Spa, also found on the property, allows you to plan for a little pampering during your visit. From relaxing hot stone massages to clarifying facials, there are many relaxing services to choose from. The property also features several dining options, including the Rose Tavern, Sand Bar, Library, and Pool Bar & Grill.

Pet-friendly travellers will be happy to know that the resort welcomes dogs under 35 pounds with a flat fee of $100 plus a nightly cleaning charge of $50. Upon arrival, canine visitors will also be spoiled with a dog bed and a welcome bag of toys and treats. 

Single Island Shores

5761 Rabbit Run Rd, Hector, NY

Another fun option when choosing a place to stay is to book a cottage—especially a cottage with a lake view, which allows you to take advantage of the beauty of the region. If this sounds like your dream getaway, we recommend Single Island Shores. During our recent visit, we had the pleasure of staying here and experiencing their iconic sunset views.

Depending on the size of your family or group, there are several cottage options, including a single (sleeps four), double (sleeps six), 4-bedroom (sleeps 10-14), or the Lakefront Grand Chalet (sleeps 14).

Single Island Shores is a family-owned and operated destination. The Alexander family has put their hearts into creating the perfect spot for guests of all ages. The property offers fire pits with seating and gas grills, as well as a playground for the kids.

Dogs under 30 lbs are allowed in designated pet-friendly cottages for $50 per night. All pups must be at least nine months old, fully house-trained, and approved in advance. Cats and larger dogs are not permitted. There are also restrictions against Pit Bulls, Chows, Dobermans, German Shepherds or Rottweilers, regardless of size, age, or training. 

Camping in the Finger Lakes

Whether you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option when considering accommodations in the Finger Lakes or simply prefer to spend your time outdoors in a tent or travel trailer, there are many excellent camping opportunities in the region. These include full hookup RV sites, log cabins, more rustic tent camping sites, and more.

A few locations we recommend include:

• Cheerful Valley Campground (1412 Route 14, Phelps, NY)
• Fillmore Glen State Park (1686 St. Rte. 38, Moravia, NY)
• Finger Lakes National Forest (Burdett, NY)
• Keuka Lake State Park (3560 Pepper Rd, Keuka Park, NY)
• KOA Canandaigua Campground (5374 Canandaigua Farmington Town Line Road, Farmington, NY)
• Letchworth State Park (Castile, NY)
• Sampson State Park (6096 Route 96A, Romulus, NY)
• Stay Bristol Woodlands (4835 South Hill Road, Canandaigua, NY)
• Taughannock Falls State Park (1740 Taughannock Blvd, Trumansburg, NY)
• Watkins Glen State Park (1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY)

Rules regarding permitted equipment, pet policies, and other important details vary from location to location. To learn more, check the website for the campground or park you’re interested in. 

Things To Do In Finger Lakes, NY

The Finger Lakes region encompasses a large area with several towns and villages, creating many opportunities for visitors of all ages and interests to enjoy. We couldn’t possibly cover everything in the region, but we have created a round-up of our favourite Finger Lakes activities and attractions to help you start building your own travel itinerary: 

Explore the Village of Hammondsport

This quaint village may be small, with only around 500 residents, but don’t let that fool you. Hammondsport, NY, has so much to see and do for visitors.

Hammondsport embraces and proudly shares its history. This balance of the past and present creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We took some time to walk through the village square, where we discovered unique shops, art galleries, and some amazing restaurants (more on those to follow).

You will also find some incredible, award-winning wineries located in and around the village, which has earned it the title “Heart of the New York Wine Country.” 

Frey Opera House

61-63 Shether Street, Hammondsport

A beautiful tribute to Hammondsport’s past, the Frey Opera House dates back to approximately 1901. Its historic architecture has been well maintained over the years as the building’s occupants changed and evolved. A commemorative plaque honours its origins.

In 1985, it became home to Opera House Antiques, a multi-dealer shop specializing in antiques and collectibles, such as furniture, jewellery, prints and paintings, quilts, period clothing, and more. If this sounds like something you would enjoy, we recommend exploring the various vendor booths to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir from your trip. 

Depot Park

7 Water St, Hammondsport

While most of the things to do in Finger Lakes on this list are focused on museums and the area’s history, this is a nice opportunity to relax and embrace the area’s beauty. Depot Park is a public park located on the shores of Keuka Lake. Here, you can enjoy a picnic with the family (or that special someone), go swimming during the summer months, and enjoy some fresh air.

There is a roped-off swimming area supervised by lifeguards from 12 to 5:30 PM daily during the summer months. Bathrooms and changerooms are also available. 

Glenn H. Curtiss Museum

8419 NY-54, Hammondsport

Whether you have a general love of history or, specifically, the history of aviation, the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum is worth a visit. Named after Glenn Hammond Curtiss, a pioneer in the world of aviation, the museum is dedicated to collecting, restoring, and displaying artifacts that help share the history of flight and other transportation methods.

The featured exhibit, “Teaching the World to Fly,” examines the history of the building’s namesake, from his first aircraft purchase and the opening of the Curtiss School of Aviation to the operations of the Curtiss Flying Service up to the beginning of World War II. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the significant impact Glenn H. Curtiss had on the world of aviation and the Air Wing of the military.

The museum showcases an impressive collection of classic aircraft (originals, restorations, and reproductions) from 1904 to 1951. It also has antique automobile (1904-1931), bicycle (1865-1900), and motorcycle (1904-1930) collections, allowing you to literally walk through the history of transportation. 

Finger Lakes Boat Museum

8231 Pleasant Valley Rd, Hammondsport

Another transportation-focused museum, the Finger Lakes Boat Museum specifically explores the world of boating over the years. Here, you will see a collection of miniature and to-scale steamboats, outboard and inboard motors throughout the years, a boat restoration shop, an interactive rowing simulator, and other nautical exhibits.

This museum offers activities for the whole family, including a kids’ play area and the opportunity to build a model sailboat.

In addition to the museum exhibits, you can also enjoy their collection of boat-themed artwork, including murals, original paintings, and framed prints. We also recommend taking a cruise on The Pat II, which will take you on a historical tour of Keuka Lake. 

Watkins Glen State Park

1009 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen

Outdoor adventure lovers, here’s an option for you. Watkins Glen State Park has earned the reputation of being the most famous of the state parks in the Finger Lakes region, and for good reason. The breathtaking views this park offers can’t be beat!

If you’re looking for hiking in the Finger Lakes, the park offers three different trails—the Southern Rim Trail, the Indian Trail, and the Gorge Trail. During our hike, we were treated to waterfalls, stone bridges, and a view of the 400-foot-deep gorge cut through the rock by Glen Creek. However, it should be noted that the trails do include more than 800 stone steps, meaning they’re not ideal for those with mobility limitations.

Depending on the season, this is also a popular spot for other outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. There is also a playground, several picnic tables and pavilions, grills, and a gift shop.  

Finger Lakes National Forest

Caywood Point

Another opportunity to embrace the region’s natural beauty, Finger Lakes National Forest spans over 16,000 acres with over 30 miles of trails to explore. During our visit, we went to Caywood Point, a forest section bordering Seneca Lake. Here, you can access the Fossenvue Trail, a gravel path that takes you through the forest with some steep sections and beautiful panoramic views, but it’s also a great place to go for a swim and cool off on a warm day.

While there is a lot of information available online to learn about the forest, the best way to find out about hiking options and other opportunities is to visit the Finger Lakes National Forest – Hector Ranger Station (5218 State Route 414, Hector). 

Hector Falls

Located on the eastern shores of Seneca Lake, Hector Falls is an impressive 165-foot-high waterfall. The water cascades over several drops and passages, spanning over 250 feet combined down the hill. Not only is it an incredible sight, but it’s also conveniently located just off the highway, with one part flowing under Rt. 414. This makes it accessible for all visitors to view, unlike some of the most challenging trails leading to other waterfalls in the area.

While the falls are always beautiful and worth seeing, the water levels fluctuate based on the weather and season. During dry summers, the water slows to just a small trickle. However, after a heavy rain, the high water levels create a stunning display. 

Corning Museum of Glass

1 Museum Way, Corning

Are you a lover of the arts? If so, you should plan to visit the Corning Museum of Glass. Established in 1951, this not-for-profit museum now holds the title of “the world’s largest space dedicated to the display of contemporary art and design in glass,” as declared on the museum’s website.

Here, you will learn about the history of glass and glassmaking, the role glasswork has played throughout history, and the science behind some of the greatest glass-related innovations. You can also register for beginner-friendly Make Your Own Glass workshops on the website. These workshops are booked quickly, so check the available workshop dates/themes and reserve your spot as soon as possible. 

Rockwell Museum

111 Cedar St, Corning 

Another incredible museum worth checking out is the Rockwell Museum, which is dedicated to American art. The exhibits here will take you through a collection of art through the ages, painting a picture of how art reflected the growing and changing culture of America.

The museum is home to a vast collection of works, including drawings, paintings, sculptures, and photography. However, in addition to the permanent collection, they host many rotating spotlight exhibitions highlighting talented American artists. For example, at the time of writing this, there is an exhibition dedicated to the photography of William Wegman, a photographer known for his images of dogs, specifically Weimaraners.

They also host many programs and events, including adult-only programming and family-friendly opportunities. We recommend checking the online Events Calendar when planning your visit.

John W. Jones Museum

1250 Davis St, Elmira

This historic home was once the home of John W. Jones, an agent in the Underground Railroad who assisted in the escape of 800 runaway slaves. After falling into disarray, it was condemned and scheduled for demolition in 1997. However, a group of concerned citizens led by Lucy Brown saved the building and transformed it into the John W. Jones Museum, commemorating Jones and his actions.

As you walk through the building, you can read about the selfless acts Jones carried out throughout his life. Displays outline the steps he took, from sheltering the fugitives (sometimes bringing them into his own home) to arranging for their transportation to Niagara Falls. You can also learn about his role as the sexton for Woodlawn Cemetery and his tireless efforts to respectfully bury each deceased Confederate soldier from the Elmira Prison Camp. 

Bike Keuka Lake Outlet Trail

Often called the “Outlet Trail,” the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail stretches from Penn Yan to the inlet along Seneca Lake. There are over 11 km (more than 7 miles) of trails to explore, offering creek views, waterfalls, and beautiful wooded areas. We rented bikes from Shoreline Rentals during our stay, but the trail is also a popular destination for horseback riding and hiking in the Finger Lakes.

The trail is maintained by the non-profit organization Friends of the Outlet, Inc. They offer detailed maps and a guidebook for those interested in learning more about the trail’s history and various points of interest. An audio tour is also available on their website. 

Best Wineries and Vineyards in the Finger Lakes Region 

As the title of this guide reveals, the area is well known for its many award-winning wineries and vineyards. Knowing this, we couldn’t share things to do in Finger Lakes, NY, without listing some of our favourite wine-related destinations. Wine lovers will be happy to learn that there are so many worthwhile places to visit that you could easily plan an entire weekend just focusing on the area’s wine industry. Here are a few of our favourites to help get you started: 

Spoiler: We feel like choosing the best winery in the Finger Lakes is an impossible task… Do with this information as you will!

Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery

9749 Middle Rd, Hammondsport

The first vines of this beautiful and historic vineyard were planted in 1958 by Dr. Konstantin Frank, a pioneer in the New York winemaking movement. Four generations later, the family continues to operate the 70-acre vineyard overlooking Keuka Lake. Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery offers several different tasting packages and options, from a garden-style experience in Eugenia’s Garden to more in-depth explorations of all the vineyard has to offer. 

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards

5712 NY-414, Hector

Best known for their flagship Red Cat wine (we bought two bottles and LOVED it), Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards has a long history of grape production and winemaking in the area. In fact, this winery can trace back its story to the purchase of 153 acres of land by David Hazlitt and Clarissa Roberts Hazlitt in 1852. Today, it continues to be operated by the 7^th generation of the Hazlitt family. During our tour and tasting, we learned a cute little rhyme: “Red Cat, Red Cat, it’s an aphrodisiac, Red Cat, Red Cat, it will get them in the sack!” Hee hee 

Heron Hill Winery

9301 Co Rd 76, Hammondsport 

Founded in 1972 by John, a former English teacher in Colorado, and his loving wife Jo, Heron Hill Winery began as a passion project on 20 acres of land in the Finger Lakes region. Today, this passion has grown into an impressive and successful winery named one of the “Top 10 Most Spectacular Tasting Rooms in the World” by Travel & Leisure Magazine. We recommend trying their world-class wines while enjoying the exceptional view of Keuka Lake from the terrace. 

J.R. Dill Winery

4922 NY-414, Burdett

Located north of Watkins Glen, J.R. Dill Winery has been in operation since 2009. The winery is a beautiful spot to enjoy a glass of wine while enjoying the stunning views of Seneca Lake. If you’re looking for a fun way to start the day, consider booking a ticket to their Bubbles & Breakfast events on select Sundays at 9:30 AM. A ticket includes live music, a mimosa, and access to an assortment of traditional breakfast foods at the breakfast bar. 

Living Roots Wine & Co.

8560 County Road 87, Hammondsport

With locations both in the Finger Lakes and the Adelaide Hills region of South Australia, Living Roots Wine & Co. was founded in 2016. While this makes it one of the newer Finger Lake, NY, wineries, don’t let that stop you. The family has a 160+ year history of winemaking, and this expertise is easy to see (and taste). If you’re in the area on a Friday, you can enjoy a glass of wine (or two), the view of Keuka Lake from the Shale Creek Vineyard, and a bite to eat from Yummy Burger, which operates a pop-up on the patio from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM (Friday only).  

Living Roots Wine & Co. also offers an urban tasting room in Rochester, NY. 

Point of The Bluff Vineyards

10489 Co Rd 76, Hammondsport

Another of the best vineyards in the Finger Lakes, Point of the Bluff Vineyards creates a unique experience for its visitors with beautiful views, incredible wine, live acoustic music, bocce courts, light food, and a weekly Farmers’ Market from 5 PM to 7 PM on Thursdays. This is owned by the same people as The Park Inn (and The Park Inn restaurant), Crooked Lake Ice Cream Company, and Concerts at Point of the Bluff, an outdoor concert venue. 

Red Newt Cellars

3675 Tichenor Rd, Hector

Another great local winery, Red Newt Cellars was founded in 1998 by David and Debra Whiting. They began with a focus on reds, with their first white wines being released at the grand opening of the winery and restaurant itself in 1999. If you are in the area during the week, check out their Winemaker Wednesdays event, where their expert winemaker, Christina Zapel, takes you through a tasting while sharing knowledge about the vineyards and the wine itself. This is a great option if you have any questions about the winemaking process. 

Ryan William Vineyard

4156 NY-414, Burdett 

Since 1999, the Ryan William Vineyard has been dedicated to producing 100% Estate Grown and Bottle wine. In addition to allowing maximum control over the flavours and quality of their wines, this also allows them to demonstrate their commitment to low-impact farming practices and protecting the Finger Lakes region in their operations. Their tasting room, known as The Tasting Barn, also features a café, run by Ryan’s wife Samira, where you can enjoy incredible farm-to-fork offerings, supporting local farmers and businesses. 

Best Restaurants in Finger Lakes, New York (Besides Wineries)

Of course, no getaway is complete without the opportunity to explore the area’s culinary scene – especially when it offers as many tasty options as the Finger Lakes! Here are a few of our favourite spots to eat or grab a drink in the region:

Amity Coffee Co.

3 Main St, Penn Yan

One of our favourite breakfast spots in the area, Amity Coffee Co., has everything you need to start your day on the right foot. This includes a great cup of coffee (a morning essential) and a breakfast menu with delicious options like the smoked salmon bagel, egg sandwich, or chipotle breakfast bowl. Elevate your breakfast experience with one of their homemade butter croissants. 

Babes & Buds Coffee Lounge and Boutique

103 3rd St, Watkins Glen

Another great breakfast and coffee spot, Babes  & Buds Coffee Lounge and Boutique, offers an assortment of traditional breakfast foods, including, of course, the NYC Bagel. The bagels are baked fresh in Brooklyn, NY, and come in a variety of flavours. They can also be topped with an assortment of tasty spreads, ranging from butter or plain cream cheese to more unique options like cinnamon sugar cream cheese or honey pecan cream cheese. There are also several vegan options here. 

The Blackberry Inn Kitchen 

309 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen

Crooked Lake Ice Cream Company

35 Shethar St, Hammondsport

Whether you’re enjoying an adult-only getaway or travelling with the whole family, who doesn’t love ice cream? We couldn’t help but include the perfect hot weather treat in this list of things to do in Finger Lakes! Crooked Lake Ice Cream Company is a classic 50s-style diner with many tasty and unique coffee flavours. During our visit, we stopped here for both breakfast and ice cream. If you’re curious about the options or can’t choose just one, try a flight of their popular ice cream flavours. 

The Elf In The Oak

4221 NY-414, Burdett

Grist Iron Brewing Company

4880 NY-414, Burdett

Craft beer lovers should add this spot to their Finger Lakes itinerary! Grist Iron Brewing Company is a local microbrewery founded in 2015. With 15 different beers on tap at any given time, there are options for everyone. In addition to the unique and expertly crafted beer flavours, they also have a menu of traditional pub foods, like pizzas, smoked meats, barbeque, and sandwiches. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are available. We enjoyed an incredible meal here and would return in a heartbeat!

Nickel’s Pit BBQ Watkins Glen

207 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen

Park Inn Restaurant

37 Shethar St, Hammondsport

Two Goats Brewing

5027 NY-414, Burdett

This local brew pub is an excellent spot to enjoy a pint (or explore your options with a flight), grab a bite to eat, or be entertained by live music. If you fall in love with a beer, you can also purchase growlers to go. Two Goats Brewing is best known for its signature sandwich, the Beef-On-Weck, which features slow-cooked, local beef on a kimmelweck roll and topped with a mild cream sauce and horseradish. While you’re there, ask about the story behind the ceiling money… 

Union Block Italian Bistro

138 Water St, Penn Yan

Another incredible restaurant we enjoyed during our visit, Union Block Italian Bistro is the perfect spot for those craving some traditional Italian food, including all your favourites such as antipasto, pizza, and pasta. We knew we were in love the moment we saw the menu. They also have an ever-changing rotating draft list with some interesting and unique beers and ciders to choose from. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert; their mini cannoli are the perfect way to finish a fantastic meal. 

World’s Smallest Diner

473 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen 

Do you ever walk away from a one-of-a-kind experience knowing it’s a memory you can’t wait to share? That’s how we felt after visiting the World’s Smallest Diner. The name hints at its appearance, but we still couldn’t believe our eyes. Built in 2017 by Gerry Collins, the diner is only 34 square feet with a functioning kitchen. You need to include this spot in your Finger Lakes plans, if only so you can brag that you’ve eaten at the world’s smallest diner. Make sure to take pictures, or no one will believe you… 

Grab a Glass of Wine and Enjoy This NY Getaway

The Finger Lakes region is a true gem, offering a variety of activities for all types of travellers. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, delicious food, or the area’s award-winning wine, this region has it all. I hope this guide will inspire and help you plan an unforgettable getaway to this beautiful destination.

So, pack your bags, grab a friend or loved one (or several), and be prepared to be captivated by the natural beauty and magic of this incredible New York State paradise.